25 Free Things to Do with Kids Around the Twin Cities
Family adventures don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. The Twin Cities are packed with amazing parks, splash pads, museums, hiking trails, beaches, festivals, and family events that cost little—or nothing at all. Whether you’re trying to stretch your entertainment budget, entertain the kids during summer break, or simply enjoy a weekend outdoors, there are plenty of ways to create unforgettable memories without spending much money.
From exploring nature to discovering museums and playing in splash pads, here are 25 free things to do with kids around Minneapolis and St. Paul.
1. Visit Como Park Zoo & Conservatory
Location: St. Paul
One of Minnesota’s best free attractions, Como Zoo lets families see lions, giraffes, polar bears, gorillas, sea lions, and more.
After visiting the zoo, walk through the beautiful Marjorie McNeely Conservatory filled with tropical plants, seasonal flower displays, and beautiful gardens.
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
2. Play at Hyland Lake Park Reserve
Location: Bloomington
Families love:
- Giant playground
- Walking trails
- Beach
- Picnic areas
- Nature Center (small admission may apply for some exhibits)
The playground alone is worth the trip.
3. Explore Theodore Wirth Park
Location: Minneapolis
At more than 700 acres, Theodore Wirth Park offers:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Bird watching
- Beaches
- Nature programs
- Playgrounds
Every season offers something new.
4. Visit Tamarack Nature Center
Location: White Bear Township
Kids can enjoy:
- Nature play area
- Walking trails
- Wildlife
- Interactive exhibits
- Seasonal family events
The outdoor nature playground is especially popular.
5. Cool Off at a Splash Pad
Many Twin Cities cities operate free splash pads during the summer.
Some favorites include:
- Maple Grove
- Woodbury
- Cottage Grove
- Roseville
- Shoreview
- St. Louis Park
- Plymouth
They’re perfect for younger children on hot days.
6. Walk Around Lake Harriet
Location: Minneapolis
Families enjoy:
- Walking trails
- Playground
- Bandshell performances
- Beach
- Picnic areas
Bring scooters or bikes for even more fun.
7. Visit Silverwood Park
Location: St. Anthony
Silverwood Park combines:
- Lakeside trails
- Outdoor art
- Nature
- Children’s activities
- Picnic areas
One of the Twin Cities’ hidden gems.
8. Hike at Lebanon Hills Regional Park
Location: Eagan
Explore:
- Miles of hiking trails
- Lakes
- Wildlife
- Picnic shelters
- Canoe launches
Perfect for active families.
9. Explore Dodge Nature Center
Location: West St. Paul
Children love:
- Farm animals
- Hiking
- Nature exploration
- Educational programs
- Seasonal events
Many outdoor areas are free to explore.
10. Visit the Minnesota State Capitol
Location: St. Paul
Families can admire the beautiful architecture and explore the public spaces of one of Minnesota’s most impressive buildings. Free guided tours are often available, making it a fun way for kids to learn about state history and government.
11. Discover the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden
Location: Minneapolis
Home to the famous Spoonbridge and Cherry sculpture, this outdoor art park is fun for all ages.
Kids enjoy finding their favorite sculptures while parents snap family photos.
12. Spend the Day at French Regional Park
Location: Plymouth
Enjoy:
- Beach
- Playground
- Fishing pier
- Walking trails
- Picnic areas
Bring lunch and stay all afternoon.
13. Visit Wood Lake Nature Center
Location: Richfield
Boardwalk trails wind through wetlands filled with birds, turtles, frogs, and native plants.
It’s hard to believe you’re still in the middle of the city.
14. Explore Crosby Farm Regional Park
Location: St. Paul
This scenic park along the Mississippi River offers:
- Hiking
- Biking
- Wildlife
- River views
- Picnic spots
Great for families who love nature.
15. Walk Across the Stillwater Lift Bridge
Location: Stillwater
While technically a short drive from the Twin Cities, walking across the historic lift bridge is completely free and offers beautiful views of the St. Croix River.
Grab ice cream afterward if you’d like to splurge.
16. Visit Noerenberg Memorial Gardens
Location: Wayzata
These beautiful Lake Minnetonka gardens are free to visit and make a wonderful place for family walks and photos.
17. Attend Free Summer Concerts
Many Twin Cities communities host free outdoor concerts throughout the summer.
Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner for a relaxing evening together.
18. Explore Local Farmers Markets
Many farmers markets feature:
- Live music
- Kids’ activities
- Food samples
- Local artisans
- Entertainment
Even if you don’t buy anything, they’re fun places to explore.
19. Visit a Community Festival
Throughout the summer and fall, Twin Cities communities host free festivals with:
- Live music
- Parades
- Food vendors
- Kids’ activities
- Classic car shows
Check your city’s event calendar for upcoming celebrations.
20. Hike at Afton State Park on Free Park Days
While Minnesota State Parks normally require a vehicle permit, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources offers several Free Park Days each year when admission is waived.
It’s the perfect opportunity to explore trails, overlooks, and picnic areas without paying the daily entrance fee.
21. Play at Central Park
Location: Maple Grove
Families enjoy:
- Interactive playground
- Open green space
- Walking trails
- Seasonal events
- Winter skating loop
A favorite gathering place for local families.
22. Explore Wargo Nature Center
Location: Lino Lakes
Interactive exhibits and scenic trails make this an excellent destination for curious kids.
23. Visit a Local Library
Twin Cities libraries offer far more than books.
Many host:
- Story times
- LEGO clubs
- Craft days
- STEM activities
- Teen game nights
- Summer reading programs
Best of all—they’re completely free.
24. Go Beach Hopping
Many public beaches around the Twin Cities offer free admission.
Favorites include:
- Lake Nokomis
- Bde Maka Ska
- Lake Phalen
- Weaver Lake
- Cedar Lake
Bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing summer afternoon.
25. Explore Community Trails
Some of the Twin Cities’ best adventures are simply walking or biking together.
Popular family-friendly trails include:
- Gateway State Trail
- Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Trail
- Mississippi River Regional Trail
- Nine Mile Creek Regional Trail
- Elm Creek trails
Every season offers new scenery to enjoy.
Money-Saving Tips for Families
Pack a Picnic
Instead of eating out, bring lunch and enjoy one of Minnesota’s beautiful parks.
Bring Water Bottles
Refillable water bottles help save money while keeping everyone hydrated.
Check Community Calendars
Many cities host free:
- Movie nights
- Concerts
- Festivals
- Nature programs
- Family game nights
Throughout the year.
Visit Museums on Free Admission Days
Several Twin Cities museums offer free admission on select days or evenings throughout the year. Check each museum’s website before your visit, as schedules can change.
One of the best things about living in the Twin Cities is that family fun doesn’t have to be expensive. From free zoos and splash pads to hiking trails, beaches, playgrounds, outdoor concerts, and community festivals, there are endless ways to spend quality time together without stretching your budget.
Sometimes the most meaningful family memories aren’t made during expensive vacations—they’re made while skipping rocks on a lake, hiking through the woods, watching a free concert in the park, or laughing together at a neighborhood splash pad.
So pack a picnic, grab the sunscreen, and start exploring. You may be surprised by just how many unforgettable adventures are waiting just around the corner—and many of them won’t cost a dime.
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